I’ve been on a quest to make my phone distraction free since I had my son last year. I didn’t realize how much of my time and attention it was taking up until it started interfering with the quality time I spent with my baby. Now he’s almost one and gets into everything, which means I have to keep an eye on him more than ever.

I thought I would miss Instagram the most. I love sharing photos of my dog and making Instagram stories. In truth, I don’t miss the apps at all. No one is crying out to me, “Lily, where did you go??” and I’m OK with that. Unfortunately, I’m still suckered into YouTube rabbit holes and checking Facebook on my laptop even though I know nothing new is there.

Stick to your principles

Is there a social media company that goes against your principles but your friends make you feel like you can’t leave? Give a heads up that you’ll be leaving the platform and give your friends alternate ways to stay in touch. I created a newsletter.

Newport recommends creating a blog or website, your own little space on the internet that no one else can dictate or control. Make it your own, be creative. You can make private websites or public. Many platforms like WordPress and Squarespace and drag and drop functionality so you don’t need to know how to code to make your own site.